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DIET + WELLNESS
WHY ARE SENIORS MORE AT RISK OF DEHYDRATION?
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eniors are not only at an increased risk of lacking proper hydration, but also the serious health complications from being dehydrated. Severe or untreated chronic dehydration can lead to several conditions that caregivers should be aware of: Urinary tract infections, kidney stones or kidney failure Electrolyte problems that can lead to heart trouble or seizures • Low blood volume (hypovolemic shock) that can be lifethreatening • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke • Confusion, anxiety and disorientation •
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SPRING/SUMMER 2022
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There are a number of factors that make older adults more susceptible to suffer from dehydration.
LESS TOTAL BODY FLUID The amount of fluid in your body decreases with age. Since you have fewer water reserves available for your body to use, any further decrease in water intake has a larger effect. DECREASED THIRST RESPONSE The feeling of thirst decreases with age. Older adults’ bodies may not let them know when they need to drink more water.
